Virus

**Semantic type:** Virus

**Definition:** An infectious agent which consists of two parts, genetic material and a protein coat. These organisms lack independent metabolism, and they must infect the cells of other types of organisms to reproduce. Most viruses are capable of passing through fine filters that retain bacteria, and are not visible through a light microscope.

**Synonyms:** - VIRUS - Viruses - Viruses - Viruses, General - virus